From Disney Channel darling to global pop star, Selena Gomez has lived much of her life in the spotlight—but even she wasn’t immune to childhood crushes. And in a moment fans didn’t see coming, the Only Murders in the Building actress just confessed who once had her heart: Ice Cube.
Yes, that Ice Cube—the West Coast rap legend known for his gritty lyrics and gangster persona—was little Selena’s protector… in her 5-year-old mind, at least.
“I Had the Biggest Crush on Ice Cube”
During a fun sit-down with Colombian superstar Karol G on Complex’s GOAT Talk, Selena let the truth slip:
“I had the biggest crush on Ice Cube when I was, like, five,” she laughed, adding, “It’s so weird. But I just felt like he would protect me.”
The unexpected reveal had fans doing double takes—but it’s just the kind of wholesome-meets-wild admission that makes Selena so relatable.
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Selena didn’t try to rationalize it. “It was simply based on my childhood,” she added. “I don’t even know if I knew what he did. I just thought he was cool and safe somehow.”
Cue millions of fans collectively smiling—and Googling early ‘90s Ice Cube photos to see what little Selena might’ve seen.
Selena’s Love for Eminem, Too
While Ice Cube had her heart, another hip-hop icon had her ears. Selena also opened up about her love for Eminem, revealing a more personal connection:
“I grew up listening to him. My dad was a DJ, so he would remix all kinds of songs. Every time it was an Eminem song, I would just get so excited.”
Music has always played a huge role in Selena’s life, and it’s clear her dad’s influence helped shape her eclectic tastes—from emotional pop ballads to rapid-fire rap bars.
Her ability to appreciate artists as diverse as Eminem and Ice Cube only adds to her reputation as a grounded, culture-savvy star.
Fans React: “Selena Had the Most 2000s Crush Ever”
Social media loved the reveal. Twitter/X and Instagram lit up with reactions:
- “Selena Gomez having a crush on Ice Cube at 5 is the cutest thing ever.”
- “I didn’t expect this—but it kind of makes sense? She grew up in the best era of rap.”
- “Now I need an Ice Cube x Selena collab for the culture.”
The reactions were mostly heart-eyed emojis and lighthearted banter—but some fans also pointed out how these childhood influences might’ve subtly shaped her fearless attitude and musical evolution.
Meanwhile, Ice Cube Is Still Cementing His Legacy—Literally
Interestingly, Gomez’s Ice Cube revelation comes not long after the Don Mega made history of his own.
In early 2025, Ice Cube was honored with his handprints, signature, and iconic Chuck Taylors imprinted in cement at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood—a legendary moment for a man who helped redefine West Coast rap.
“Today was legendary,” Cube wrote on Instagram. “Left my prints in cement at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. Honored to continue to receive my flowers in a business I never thought I’d be a part of.”
Speaking to ABC7, the N.W.A icon reflected on how far he’s come:
“To have my hands, signature, to put the Chuck Taylors in the cement here, it’s next level. It’s things you don’t even dream of because the dream is too big.”
The Full-Circle Moment No One Saw Coming
What makes this story even more magical is the full-circle nature of it all:
- Selena admired Ice Cube as a child for his strength and “protector” energy.
- Ice Cube, now a certified Hollywood icon, is being immortalized among the industry’s elite.
- Both artists have evolved far beyond their early images—and continue to inspire in new, unexpected ways.
Selena’s nostalgic confession feels like a sweet tribute to how hip-hop—and Ice Cube, specifically—helped shape a generation of fans, even ones like her who were still rocking sparkly headbands and watching Barney.
Final Thoughts: A Sweet, Unexpected Crossover
Who would’ve thought Selena Gomez + Ice Cube would make headlines in 2025? But here we are—and the internet is here for it.
From childhood innocence to career-defining milestones, this moment proves that admiration, legacy, and nostalgia are powerful forces in pop culture. And honestly? Ice Cube as a childhood crush makes total sense when you realize Selena’s always been drawn to strong energy and authenticity.
What do you think—was Ice Cube a crush-worthy icon back in the day?
Would you love to see Selena and Cube team up somehow?
Drop your thoughts below and keep it locked on The Pop Radar (TPR) for more unexpected celeb confessions!
